Local sporting hero James Veale is recognised for lifetime of service
James Veale is handed a plaque by Cathaoirleach of the Dungarvan/Lismore District, Cllr John Pratt
Local man James Veale was the recipient of a prestigious Mayoral Reception last week, in recognition of his service to the sport of athletics for the people of West Waterford.
For decades, James has provided and organised annual athletic events for thousands of competitors, young and old.
His work has had an immeasurable impact on West Waterford Athletics Club, as well as the wider community.
James is the third member of the Veale family to receive a Mayoral Reception, following in the footsteps of his father Jim, who was recognised for his 40 years of service to the St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee, and daughter Kate, who has been honoured by the Council for her own achievements in national and international athletics.
The reception was hosted by the Council at the Civic Offices in Dungarvan last week, and was attended by family, friends and club members.
Cllr Joe O’Riordan, who proposed the reception, provided an overview of James’ illustrious career to the attending guests.
James began his athletic career in 1971, as a member of the old Dungarvan Athletic Club. He was extremely fortunate to have encountered experienced mentors and tutors during these formative years.
“James now has become the mentor, the wise opinion, and the driving ambition of the club and its members, both young and old” Cllr O’Riordan said.
In January 1994, Dungarvan AC amalgamated with two other local clubs, to form the new West Waterford Athletics Club.
James was an integral figure during this time.
“Under the influence and work rate that James demonstrated, the club now has a wealth of over 600 members. The benefit to the community is immeasurable” O’Riordan added.
“People like James Veale are the vital ingredient of the continuing health and wellbeing of our community. James, sincere thanks to you for all you have done, and your legacy in this town and west Waterford”, he concluded.
Words of appreciation were also offered on the day by Cllr John Pratt, Cathaoirleach of the Dungarvan/Lismore Electoral District, who said that over many years, James has been a constant factor in the nurturing of West Waterford AC.
“The measure of society is the willingness of those members of society to step up and better the lives of those around us in our communities. James Veale is a singular example of the self-sacrificing behaviour that leads to a better society in terms of health, both mental and physical”, Cllr Pratt said.
He paid further homage to the mark that James has left on athletics not only locally, but also in national and international arenas.
“He has travelled far and wide as a supporter and an official and is as knowledgeable about athletics as anyone” Cllr Pratt added.
Seconding the motion, Cllr Thomas Phelan, said that James has always been someone who “gets stuck in and gets things done.”
“Growing up, you look around you and see examples of people who are making positive contributions to their community, and James has certainly always been one of those” Cllr Phelan said.
He thanked James for always taking the time to thank stewards on race routes.
“James thinks of everybody along the way, always” Phelan said.
Accepting the award bestowed upon him by the Council, James said:
“There is great pride and joy in becoming the third member of the Veale family to receive this Council recognition.
“I am very grateful, and I see it as a testament to the work being done by so many people in our area to promote and develop athletics.
“Athletics is very much a community effort, it is built on the commitment of athletes, volunteers, families, clubs, officials and supporters who give their time, energy and dedication week after week. This recognition, belongs to all of them as much as it does to me.”
James used his acceptance speech to promote the development of a new track for West Waterford AC, which he said would have an immeasurable impact not only on the club itself, but also the wider community who would share the facility.
“The land for this development has been secured, and we look forward to finally seeing this dream become a reality in the not-too-distant future.
“It is a very important next step in the development of athletics in West Waterford; it is well and truly long overdue” he said.
(Funded by the Local Democracy Scheme)
